Nationals fans had high hopes that the Pope Benedict XVI might leave behind some holy mojo for the home team after presiding over mass at Nationals Park just a few days ago.Unfortunately, Mets pitcher Johan Santana had other ideas, scattering 7 hits and ruining another good outing by Nationals pitcher Tim Redding to kick off the Nationals’ longest homestand of the season.

Worst of all was the presence of a vocal minority of Mets fans at Nationals Park — the first time we’ve heard such a heavy rooting contingent for the visiting team since our new stadium opened.

I suppose I shouldn’t complain too loudly since I’ll be at Verizon Center for the Wizards playoff game on Thursday night, but it sure would be nice if tomorrow’s crowd at Nationals Park was a little more vocal in support of Shawn Hill. Cheer for Teddy(!), and I’ll see you in section 128 for Friday night’s game against the Cubs.